Local law enforcement teaming up to reduce impaired driving during July 4 weekend

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Area law enforcement agencies have partnered to reduce impaired driving this holiday weekend.

The Texas Department of Public Safety, who kicked off its annual Operation Holiday program on Friday, as well as the Victoria Police Department and the Victoria County Sheriff's Office will have increased visibility along the roadways during the July 4 weekend in an effort to find and arrest impaired drivers.

"We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy Independence Day weekend," VPD Traffic Sgt. Julian Huerta said in a news release.

Additionally, law enforcement will also be working to ensure vehicle occupants are properly secured, meaning everyone is wearing seatbelts and all children under 8 years old and/or under 4 feet, 9 inches tall are in an approved car safety seat.

VPD has been working overtime since June 28 to find and arrest impaired drivers. That operation will end on Wednesday.

For the last five years, the Texas Highway Patrol did not work any fatal collisions in Victoria and surrounding counties over the July 4 holiday, according to a news release.

Motorists are also urged to slow down in bad weather and road conditions, pull over to a safe place when using a cell phone, be courteous to other drivers and make sure vehicles are in good condition before embarking on long trips.